Scottish Labour Party backs bid for Christmas and New Year closure of big retail outlets in Scotland

Retail union Usdaw has welcomed support from the Scottish Labour Party for a Bill sponsored by MSP Karen Whitefield that aims to prevent large stores in Scotland from opening their doors on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Delegates at the Scottish Labour Party conference voted in favour of closing retail outlets over Christmas and New Year’s Day earlier this week.

Usdaw general secretary John Hannett said the Bill would ensure shop workers had a proper work-life balance over the festive season.

“This Bill is popular with shopworkers and shoppers alike because it maintains Hogmanay as a traditional Scottish holiday,” he said.

Hannett rejected claims that closing large stores could have a negative impact on the Scottish economy and vowed to pursue the campaign.

“Usdaw will keep the pressure on to make sure the festive period has two days when retail staff can relax in what is the busiest period for stores across Scotland,” he said.